Business Transition Planning
Planning What's Next for Your Business Starts Today
Whether you're considering family succession, a management buyout, employee ownership, a majority or minority sale to a strategic or financial buyer, or embarking on a strategic options analysis exercise, BMO can help connect you with the appropriate resources and expertise to support your transition journey.
Why Business Transition Matters
Transition is a process, not a one-time event
Most owners underestimate preparation timelines and the importance of planning years ahead of a transition
Early planning creates more options and preserves value
Consider financial, family, leadership, and legacy outcomes
Ensuring the company remains viable in the long run emerged as the top priority for 60% of BMO Wealth Management survey respondents*
Family Succession
Passing ownership to the next generation while preserving legacy.
Management Buyout
Transitioning ownership to key leaders within the business.
Employee Ownership Trust
Creating continuity while rewarding employees.
Third-Party Sale
Optimizing the outcome through strategic execution.
Insights
* “Business Transition” survey conducted by BMO Commercial Bank January 2026 – February 2026. Survey of business owner 419 clients across the U.S. and Canada.